About a three-hour drive southeast of Melbourne is another of Victoria's natural playgrounds. Cowes is Phillip Island's largest town and focal point, with its scenic cafes, restaurants and "lover's walk". It also houses the hordes of visitors who come to see the rugged "Nobbies", Seal Rocks and the hugely popular Penguin Parade. Other attractions include the surf beaches, idyllic fishing spots, Kingston Park Zoo, a koala reserve and numerous small farms, museums and galleries. Each year in October, the island's tranquility is interrupted when the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix brings thousands of visitors to town.
Set in Healesville's lush hillside forests, the famous Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to see Australia's exotic wildlife close up. Your picnic hamper will be inevitably shared with wandering Emu! Platypuses have been successfully bred in captivity here and dingoes, wallabies, koalas and a plethora of other native creatures can be viewed at leisure. A descent into the darkness of the reptile house brings you face to face with some of the world's most dangerous reptiles. The most popular time, for humans and animals, is feeding time-do not miss it!
Contact Information: Badger Creek Road, 3777 Healesville, Australia +61 3 5957 2800
Nothing attracts people more than the prospect of a bargain. Combine that with a vibrant mix of cultures, a century of history and you have a full day's activities in one location. There is plenty on offer here; from meat, fish, vegetables and fruit to aromatherapy, arts and crafts and bargain clothing. There are also regular lectures by leading chefs and market tours; check website for updated program. Built in 1878, the Market comprises several classified historic buildings meaning that its future is certain to be protected, much to the relief of the 130,000 shoppers that visit every week. Admission is free.
Contact Information: 513 Elizabeth Street, 3000 Melbourne, Australia +61 3 9320 5822
The Great Ocean Road with its magnificent surf beaches, rainforest and rolling farmland is a favourite holiday destination for Melburnians. This tour travels through central Melbourne over the Westgate Bridge and through Victoria's second-largest city, Geelong, before entering the famous coast Road. It twists and turns its way past landmark towns such as Bells Beach (home of the surf championships), Anglesea, Lorne and Apollo Bay. The highlight of the trip for many is the sight of the famous Twelve Apostles in Port Campbell National Park. Wind and waves lashing the sandstone cliffs have created these and other rock formations all along this coast, which has also seen several shipwrecks.
Contact Information: 184 Swanston Street, Melbourne Day Tour Centre, 3000 Melbourne, Australia +61 3 9639 2211
Known for its eclectic arts and culture, Melbourne is Australia’s hip, trendsetting city in the southeastern state of Victoria along Port Phillip Bay. Downtown Melbourne—the Central Business District, or CBD—is broken up into distinct neighborhoods with a range of attractions, art venues, restaurants and bars to appeal to the tastes of any visitor. Visit Melbourne’s historical quarter on Collins Street where you’ll find designer shops and classic Gothic architecture. Gallery hop along Flinders Lane or stroll along the Southbank’s promenade on the Yarra River, which offers many fine dining options.
In the city fringe, visit swanky St Kilda, a seaside district with high-end and second-hand shopping and classy restaurants on Fitzroy and Acland streets. The Richmond district offers authentic Greek and Vietnamese cuisine; you’ll find Little Saigon here. In bohemian Fitzroy, find art galleries, hipster cafés and great bars and nightlife; walk down Brunswick Street to get a feel for this bustling neighborhood.
